While diesel engines usually have a maximum operating limit of -25°C, electric cars are able to withstand approximately -40°C. However, the internal cells of batteries wear out faster and offer greater resistance, slowing down the electrochemical recharging process. The manufacturers themselves reduce the charging speed at sub-zero temperatures so that the battery is not damaged, in addition to using management systems that keep it in an ideal temperature range.
For all these reasons, Juice Technology offers some tips to improve your battery charge in the colder months. First, charge the battery when you get home, when it is warm and absorbs electricity more quickly. It is preferable to charge the battery overnight in order to maintain a good temperature and reduce the loss of its autonomy. It is convenient to start the car while it is connected to the charging station so that it draws power from the grid at that first moment.
Planning is very important when we talk about electric cars. We must plan both the daily departure time and the corresponding load, as well as the routes we will travel, taking into account the stops needed to recharge the car and the places where we can do it.
The company also recommends using seat heaters if we are traveling alone, instead of central heating, so that it consumes less energy. Finally, if the vehicle allows it, it is best to pre-condition the battery before charging it, an option that some Tesla, Porsche, and Daimler models currently allow.
